The objectives of the study were clearly explained in Bengali
language and verbal consent was obtained by the interviewer from
each informant who met in social gatherings arranged by local people
familiar with traditional healers and who could communicate with
native communities. Current ethnobotanical survey was conducted
between January 2010 and June 2012 with an aim to cover at least six
Kabiraj/Ayurved/Hakim/Unani practitioners in each area. The experts
in alternative and complementary medicine and reputed Hakims and/
or Ayurvedic drug manufacturers namely Hamdard, Ayurvedio Pharmacy,
Shakti, Sadhana and Kundeshwari were also consulted. Special
focus was given to the people having practical or empirical knowledge
on medicinal plants.